Are They Dumb?

From the Kentucky Post:

Local officials in Kentucky are urging state lawmakers to revoke a provision that could lead to a runoff election following the May 22 primary. Most view the $5 million cost of a runoff election as an avoidable expense, Boyd County Clerk Debbie Jones said. And the $3 million share of the cost that will have to be paid by county governments makes it unaffordable. "That's money that could be used to pave roads," Jones said.

Key lawmakers haven't dismissed the possibility of changing the state law that could trigger the runoff election. The provision has been on the books since 1992 but so far never used. It says if no one gets at least 40 percent of the vote, the top two candidates go into the runoff. With seven candidates running in the Democratic primary for governor, the chances that a runoff will be needed are high. Secretary of State Trey Grayson said he opposes the runoff, but he said he doesn't favor changing the law in the midst of the gubernatorial primary.

However, Grayson said he is aware that local officials are concerned about the cost and would rather see the runoff eliminated. Gov. Ernie Fletcher, who has two opponents in the Republican primary, hasn't taken a position on the issue. He said he would support whatever lawmakers decide to do. House Speaker Jody Richards, who is seeking the Democratic nomination for governor, has said he favors eliminating the runoff.

Senate President David Williams said he has "never been a fan of the runoff" but that he has heard sentiment among lawmakers not to change the provision in an election year. Williams said he has no position on the issue.

Were these costs unknown? Were they unanticipated?

These career, panicking politicians are wretched. They are facing difficult circumstances. Naturally, they attempt to kick the ball into the hole.

Play the ball where it lies… for once!